As the holiday shopping season reaches its peak, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Louisville have intercepted a massive shipment of counterfeit goods, safeguarding consumers from potential scams. The seizure, valued at over $18 million, includes fake designer jewelry and watches that were en route to residences across the country.
The shipment, originating from Hong Kong and China, was destined for homes in Arizona, Virginia, Florida, and New York. Upon inspection, CBP officers found 962 counterfeit items, including luxury watches, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. The items were identified as fraudulent after a thorough analysis by CBP’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise, a team of trade experts dedicated to protecting intellectual property.
Among the counterfeit items were 459 bracelets adorned with logos from high-end brands such as Cartier, Chanel, Fendi, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Van Cleef & Arpels. Officers also seized 43 pairs of earrings, 20 necklaces, and 440 Rolex-branded watches. Had these items been authentic, their total manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) would have been $18.81 million.
LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of CBP’s Chicago Field Office, stressed the importance of protecting both consumers and legitimate businesses from the harms of counterfeit goods. “Counterfeit items defraud both the consumer and legitimate businesses. Our officers are committed to working diligently to protect our economy and the American consumer,” she said. Sutton-Burke also urged shoppers to purchase authentic products from trusted retailers to avoid falling victim to counterfeit fraud.
This significant seizure highlights the ongoing efforts of CBP to prevent the influx of counterfeit goods, which not only impact consumers but also pose a serious threat to the U.S. economy and trademark holders.
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